Duck Yeah!

Hike Duck Pass for a High Sierra Adventure in Mammoth Lakes

07.22.2026

Duck Pass is everything you want in a High Sierra day hike. The 11-mile round trip from Mammoth Lakes Basin passes a string of sparkling alpine lakes before climbing to nearly 11,000-foot Duck Pass, where panoramic views of jagged peaks and sapphire waters reward the effort.

Follow the trail up, up and further up, climbing a granite staircase to the pass, where you'll look down on a turquoise necklace of lakes stretching through the rugged Sierra landscape. Lucky duck. 

Access the Duck Pass Trail from the back of Coldwater Campground at the end of Lake Mary Road. Allow five to eight hours for the round-trip, and start early, especially on warm summer days. Dog-friendly! 

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